What should I do now?
Call 911
Call 911 for new or unexplained chest pressure that persists or returns, severe trouble breathing, collapse without normal recovery, or sudden face/arm weakness or trouble speaking. Do not drive yourself.
Contact your care team
Contact your care team for new or recurrent dizziness or near-fainting. Seek urgent assessment if symptoms are severe.
Keep your care plan
Sit or lie down safely during symptoms and note timing and medication changes.
SECTION 1
What is dizziness or lightheadedness?
“Dizzy” can describe different feelings. Lightheadedness is feeling faint or as though you may pass out. Vertigo is a sensation that you or your surroundings are spinning. Imbalance means feeling unsteady while standing or walking.
These feelings can have different causes, so describing the sensation is more useful than simply saying “dizzy.” Dizziness does not automatically mean a heart problem, but heart rhythm and blood pressure changes can cause it.
Notice whether symptoms start with standing, turning your head, exertion, or no obvious trigger. Avoid driving, climbing, or walking without support while you feel unsafe.
Updated October 2026. Educational information; your own care plan may differ. Medical illustrations are simplified examples for teaching.